BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (Dec. 28, 2015) – You won’t see running back Jordan Howard donning the cream and crimson next season in Bloomington.

The junior announced Monday that he will forego his senior season at Indiana University and enter the 2016 NFL Draft.

Howard, who transferred to IU from the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB), finished second in the Big Ten with 134.8 rushing yards per game (good for ninth in the nation) and 146.6 all-purpose yards per game. He finished the season with 1,213 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. The numbers are especially impressive given that Howard missed 22 quarters this season with injuries.

Howard released the following statement about his decision to turn pro:

After much thought and prayer, I have decided to forego my final year of eligibility to pursue my lifelong dream of playing in the NFL.

My success to date would not have been possible without God and the support of family and countless people. I’d like to thank my parents, Dr. Reginald Howard (deceased) and Flora Williams for their unyielding and unwavering support over the years.

My sincerest thanks to all of my coaches and teammates at Indiana University and the University of Alabama-Birmingham. I would like to personally thank former UAB coach Garrick McGee for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at the collegiate level. Coach Kevin Wilson, thank you for allowing me to be a part of a great football family. Coach Deland McCullough, thank you for coaching and pushing me to realize my true potential. Coach Mark Hill, thank you for inspiring me to work harder at strength and conditioning.

To my IU family, I could have never imagined receiving the love and support that you all have shown me since my arrival on campus. A special thanks to the training staff, Christa Sist and IU academics.

Today, because of the prayers, love and support of so many people, I’m one step closer to making my NFL dream a reality! God bless and Go Hoosiers!

Howard is 12th on the program’s all-time single season rushing list. During his collegiate career, he posted 17 100-yard rushing games, including 10 of his last 13.